Category: Monday Moments

Hope in God’s Word

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Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:114 KJV
Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. Psalm 119:114 KJV

Bible Verse

“Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.”

Psalm 119:114 (KJV)

My Story

Psalm 119:114 reads, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter how difficult our circumstances may be, we can find comfort and strength in God’s promises. One person who embodied this truth was my grandmother, who spent the last 30-plus years of her life bedridden because of rheumatoid arthritis.

My grandmother was a remarkable woman. She was gentle, and always put others before herself. Despite her physical limitations, she never lost her faith in God. She saw her bed as her hiding place and her shield, a place where she could find rest and peace during her pain.

I spent countless hours by my grandmother’s bedside reading to her from the Bible. Sharing stories from my day and just sitting with her in silence were part of my routine. 

She always smiled on her face and encouraged me.

One day I was feeling down. I received a poor grade on a test. I felt like a failure. 

My grandmother sensed my sadness and asked me what was wrong. I told her about my test, and she listened. Then she reminded me of Psalm 119:114.

“Child,” she said, “God is our hiding place and our shield. When we put our hope in His word, we can face anything that comes our way. Don’t worry about this test. Just do your best and trust in God’s plan for your life.”

Her words stuck with me, and I carried them with me through the years. Whenever I faced a difficult situation, I remembered my grandmother’s advice and turned to God for strength. Her faith was contagious, and it inspired me to deepen my relationship with God.

Despite her physical limitations, my grandmother never lost her sense of purpose. She used her time in bed to pray for others, read the Bible, and encourage those around her. She may not have been able to do much physically, but she had a profound impact on those who knew her.

In the end, my grandmother’s faith in God sustained her through the years of pain and suffering. She knew that her hope was not in her circumstances, but in God’s promises. Her life was a living testament to Psalm 119:114, and her legacy continues to inspire me to this day.

In conclusion, my grandmother’s life was a powerful example of the truth of Psalm 119:114. No matter what we may face in life, we can find hope and refuge in God’s word. May we all have the same faith and courage as my grandmother, and may we never forget that God is our hiding place and our shield.

Who wrote Psalm 119:114 and when was it written?

Psalm 119:114 is in the longest chapter in the Bible, Psalm 119, which comprises 176 verses. Many scholars attribute Psalm 119 to King David’s authorship.

Scholars believe Psalm 119 was written sometime between the 6th and 4th centuries BC, during the period of the Second Temple in Jerusalem. The rebuilding of the temple, the restoration of Jewish worship, and the return of exiled Jews to Jerusalem marked this period. The themes of obedience to God’s laws, the importance of prayer and meditation, and trust in God’s faithfulness, which are prominent in Psalm 119, were also central to the Jewish faith during this period. If David wrote the Psalm, he wrote it was written between 1010 BC to 970 BC.

What is the context of Psalm 119:114?

Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse is part of the longest chapter in the Book of Psalms, which is a poem comprising 176 verses, each focusing on the importance and beauty of God’s Word.

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing his trust in God and his reliance on God’s protection. The phrase “hiding place” suggests that the psalmist feels secure in God’s presence, and the mention of a shield emphasizes God’s role in protecting the psalmist from harm.

The psalmist also expresses his hope in God’s word, showing that he believes God’s promises and teachings will guide him through life and give him strength to face whatever challenges come his way.

Overall, Psalm 119:114 highlights the psalmist’s deep faith in God and his recognition of God’s power to provide safety, protection, and guidance in all aspects of life.

What is the meaning of Psalm 119:114?

Psalm 119:114 is part of the longest chapter in the Book of Psalms, which is a poem or song attributed to King David. The verse reads:

“You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.”

In this verse, the psalmist is expressing his trust and reliance on God as his protector and the source of comfort. The metaphor of God as a hiding place suggests that the psalmist is seeking refuge from something or someone that is threatening him. We also see God as a shield, providing physical and spiritual protection from harm.

The second half of the verse expresses the psalmist’s faith in God’s promises and his word. The psalmist has placed his hope in God’s word, which can mean both the written word of Scripture and God’s spoken promises. This shows that the psalmist has a deep faith in God and believes that God will fulfill his promises and protect him.

Overall, Psalm 119:114 states trust and faith in God’s protection and promises. It is a reminder that God is a refuge and source of strength for those who seek him.

What does “Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.” mean?

The metaphor of a hiding place and shield suggests that the psalmist sees God as a place of safety and security, where he can go to find shelter and protection from the dangers and troubles of the world.

What does “I hope in thy word.” mean?

The psalmist also declares his hope in God’s word. This may refer to the teachings and commands of God, which are seen as a guide for living a righteous life. By trusting in God’s word, the psalmist believes that he can find the wisdom, strength, and encouragement he needs to face the challenges of life.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 119:114  (KJV, NIV & ESV)

  • Psalm 119:114  KJV biblical translation says:

Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word.

  • Psalm 119:114  NIV biblical translation says:

You are my refuge and my shield; I have put my hope in your word.

  • Psalm 119:114  ESV biblical translation says:

You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.

How does Psalm 119:114 give encouragement?

Psalm 119:114 says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” This verse gives encouragement by reminding us that God is our refuge and protection, and that we can trust in His word.

In times of trouble or uncertainty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or helpless. This verse assures us we can turn to God for safety and security. He is our hiding place, a haven where we can find comfort and rest.

The verse also mentions that God is our shield, which implies that He will protect us from harm. It reminds us we are not alone in our struggles, and that we have a loving God who is watching over us.

Last, the verse concludes by emphasizing the hope. By placing our hope in God’s word, we can find strength and courage to face whatever challenges come our way. This verse is a powerful reminder that no matter what we face in life, we can find encouragement and hope in God.

How can I apply Psalm 119:114 to my life?

Here are a few ways you can apply this verse to your life:

  • Find refuge in God: When you are going through difficult times, turn to God for refuge. He is a safe place where you can find comfort and peace. Strengthen your faith and hope by reading His word and meditating on His promises.
  • Trust in God’s word: God’s word is a source of truth and wisdom, and it is trustworthy. When you face challenges or uncertainties, turn to His word for guidance and direction. Read and studying the Bible, and let it shape your thinking and decision-making.
  • Put your hope in God: In a world that is often filled with disappointment and uncertainty, it’s easy to lose hope. But when we put our hope in God, we know that He will never let us down. He is a faithful God who cares for us and is always working for our good.

By applying these principles to your life, you can experience the peace and protection that comes from placing your trust and hope in God’s word.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 119:114

Here’s a model prayer using Psalm 119:114:

Dear God,

I come before you today grateful for your unchanging love and steadfast presence in my life. In this world, my vulnerability to many troubles and difficulties can overwhelm me. But I find my refuge in you, my Lord, who is my shield and my protector.

Thank you for the assurance you give me in Psalm 119:114, which says, “You are my hiding place and my shield; I hope in your word.” Today, I choose to put my trust in you and your promises. I know you are faithful and your word is true.

As I face the challenges that lie ahead, I pray you will continue to be my hiding place and my shield. May your word guide me and give me the strength and courage I need to face each day with hope and confidence.

Thank you for your unfailing love and your constant presence in my life. I pray all these things in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Savior.

Amen.

Conclusion

Accepting Christ as Savior is an act of faith and trust. We need the same type of trust to believe in the truths found in God’s word. It is through this trust that we can have hope and God can be our hiding place. God is a place of refuge. In our place of refuge, he acts as our shield to protect us from life’s difficulties.  The verse expresses a deep sense of faith and dependence on God, as well as a belief in the power of his Word to guide and sustain the believer.

Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023

How to Become a Christian

Here’s how can know Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior and be sure heaven is your eternal home. Click the link to read my personal story of accepting Jesus –My Story.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

Books: Click on BOOKS to see some of the books I’ve written or where I’ve been a contributor.

How We Put Our Hope In the Lord

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My late wife Benita and I at her high school senior prom in 1974. She graduated high school that spring. We married December 1974. She was 18-years old and I was 21-years old. I was a December university graduate.

Bible Verse:

“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.”

Psalm 31:24 (KJV)

My Story:

Countless people throughout history have drawn strength and encouragement from the words of Psalm 31:24, including my late wife after a diagnosis of terminal melanoma cancer.

When we first received the news, it was devastating. The doctors told us she had advanced stage three melanoma cancer. After the initial surgery, we were told if it recurred, there was little they could do to cure my wife’s cancer. My wife’s name was Benita. I called her “Miss Benita.” 

The melanoma recurred within months. The oncologist told us to focus on making Miss Benita comfortable. Extending her life with as much quality as we could should be our focus. We were both overwhelmed with fear and sadness, unsure of what the future held.

But during our pain, we turned to God for comfort and guidance. We began reading the Bible and praying for strength and peace. 

We found comfort in the words of Psalm 31:24, which reminded us to be strong and take heart, even in the face of such difficult circumstances.

As we navigated this new reality, we discovered the power of community through our coworkers and our Prestonwood Baptist Church Bible fellowship class. Our friends and family rallied around us, providing love, support, and practical help. They prayed with us, brought us meals, and sat with us in silence when words failed. Their presence gave us strength and hope, and we knew we were not alone on this journey.

Despite the challenges we faced, Miss Benita’s faith remained strong. She continued to trust in God, even when things seemed impossible. Her unwavering faith inspired me and many others who knew her.

As her illness progressed, Miss Benita’s physical strength faded. But her spirit remained strong, and she continued to be a beacon of hope and encouragement to all those around her. She would email and send cards to people on our church’s prayer list. She did this even into the first two weeks of the month she was in hospice care. 

Miss Benita’s melanoma spread to her brain. Surgery removed a melanoma tumor.

It recurred within ninety days, causing her to lose the ability to read and write. 

She never lost sight of the fact that her ultimate hope was in the Lord, and she knew that even in death, she would be with Him.

In her last days, her faith shone even brighter. 

She was at peace, knowing that she would soon be with her Lord and Savior. 

She lived her life showing her faith. Countless people were positively affected. Her legacy would continue long after she was gone.

As I reflect on Miss Benita’s life and her journey through cancer, I am reminded of the power of faith and community. I am inspired by her courage and her unwavering trust in God, even in the face of death. Many people supported us during this difficult time, providing love, comfort, and hope when we needed it most.

Psalm 31:24 is not just a verse on a page. It is a reminder of the strength and hope that we can find in God, even in the most difficult of circumstances. It is a call to be strong and take heart, even when our hearts are breaking. And it is a reminder that our hope is in the Lord, who has overcome death and has promised us eternal life.

Miss Benita’s journey through cancer taught our family and friends faith in God, community, and hope in the Lord Jesus Christ. It reminded us that even in the face of death, we can find peace and strength in God. 

And it showed us we do not measure our legacy by the number of days we live, but by the impact we have on others. May Miss Benita’s life and faith continue to inspire us all to be strong, take heart, and hope in the Lord.

Who wrote Psalm 31:24 and when was it written?

Scholars attribute Psalm 31:24 to King David. He wrote many of the Psalms in the Hebrew Bible.

The exact date of composition is uncertain, as the Psalms were likely written over a period of several centuries. Biblical scholars believe that the Psalms’ compilation and editing into their current form occurred during the Second Temple period (516 BC to 70 AD).

What is the context of Psalm 31:24?

Psalm 31:24 is the last verse of Psalm 31. It is a psalm of David. The psalm is a prayer for help and deliverance in the face of enemies and affliction. In this psalm, David expresses his trust in God. We see that even during his troubles, he asks for God’s mercy and protection.

The context of Psalm 31:24 is one of confidence and encouragement. David affirms his trust in God and encourages others to do the same, saying, “Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”

Faced with difficulties and opposition, David is reminding himself and others to stay steadfast in their faith. He says to rely on God’s strength and grace. 

This verse is a fitting conclusion to the psalm, which began with a plea for help and ends declaring trust and hope in God.

What is the meaning of Psalm 31:24?

Psalm 31:24 is part of a psalm that expresses the psalmist’s trust in God during a time of distress and persecution. 

In the preceding verses, David laments on his troubles and his enemies, who are trying to harm him. However, in this verse, he encourages himself and others who have put their hope in God to be strong and take heart.

The verse is a message of hope and encouragement for those who trust in God. It reminds believers they can be strong and take heart because of their faith in God’s goodness and faithfulness.

What does Psalm 31:24 phrase “Be of good courage,” mean?

“Be of good courage” encourages readers to remain resolute in their faith. It reminds them they have the inner strength to face whatever challenges come their way, and that they should rely on that strength to carry them through.

What does Psalm 31:24 “he shall strengthen your heart” mean?

“let your heart take courage,” reminds readers that courage is not just a matter of physical strength, but also of emotional fortitude. It encourages them to draw on the courage that comes from a deep and abiding faith in the Lord, which can help them overcome fear and doubt.

What does Psalm 31:24 “all you who hope in the Lord” mean?

“all you who hope in the Lord,” reminds readers they are not alone in their struggles. By placing their hope in God, they can find comfort and strength knowing that they are part of a larger community of believers who are also relying on God for support and guidance.

What is the difference in biblical translations of Psalm 31:24 (KJV, NIV & ESV)

  • Psalm 31:24  KJV biblical translation says:

“Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.”

Psalm 31:24 KJV
  • Psalm 31:24 NIV biblical translation says:

“Be strong and take heart, all you who hope in the Lord.”

Psalm 31:24 NIV
  • Psalm 31:24  ESV biblical translation says:

Be strong, and let your heart take courage, all you who wait for the Lord! 

Psalm 31:24  ESV

How does Psalm 31:24 give encouragement?

Psalm 31:24 says, “Be strong and let your heart take courage, all you who hope in the Lord.” This verse provides encouragement to those who are facing difficult situations by reminding them to have faith and trust in the Lord.

It is a reminder that no matter what challenges they face, they are not alone, and that they can find hope and strength in their faith.

How can I apply Psalm 31:24 to my life?

Here are a few ways you can apply this verse to your life:

  • Find strength in God: When faced with challenges or difficult situations, turn to God for strength. Place your trust in Him and draw on His power to help you persevere.
  • Take heart: Don’t give up! No matter how tough things may seem, keep your hope and faith alive. Remember that God is with you and will guide you through difficult times.
  • Trust in the Lord: Believe in God’s goodness and love, and trust that He will provide for you. Have faith in His plans for your life, even when you can’t see the way forward.
  • Encourage others: Share the message of this verse with others who may be struggling. Remind them they are not alone, and that God is always there to support them.

Psalm 31:24 is a powerful reminder of the strength and hope we can find in God. By putting our trust in Him, we can overcome any obstacle and face the future with confidence.

A model or example prayer using Psalm 31:24

Psalm 31:24 is a verse from the Bible that reads, “Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord.” A Psalm 31:24 prayer is a prayer inspired by this verse, which expresses a sense of trust, courage, and hope in God.

Here is an example of a Psalm 31:24 prayer:

Dear God,

With a heart full of hope and trust in you, I come to you today. I pray you give me the courage I need to face the challenges of this day and that you strengthen my heart so that I may persevere through the trials that come my way.

I know that with you by my side, I have nothing to fear, and I can face whatever comes my way with confidence and strength. I pray you fill me with your peace and surround me with your love, so that I may be a beacon of light to those around me who are also struggling.

Thank you for your constant presence in my life, and for the hope that I find in you. I trust in your love and your power to guide me through this day and all the days to come.

In Jesus’ name, 
Amen.

Conclusion:

Psalm 31:24 provides encouragement by reminding readers to stay strong, have courage, and put their trust in the Lord. It is a reminder that no matter what challenges they face, they are not alone, and that they can find hope and strength in their faith

Today’s article is from the forthcoming book: “Hope: How to Have Hope During Times of Hardship | The Bible Speaks to Life Issues, Book Three” by Jimmie Aaron Kepler, Ed.D. from Poetry and Prayer Press (c) 2023

Books by Jimmie Aaron Kepler are available online at SEE JIMMIE’s BOOKS

Photo Source: All photos and videos were taken by the author unless noted in the photo caption, unless otherwise credited.

Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

What are Different Types of Journaling?

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What are Different Types of Journaling?

Welcome all. I hope you’re having a wonderful day. Journaling is a great way to take a better look at yourself. Let’s call it an exciting journey into self-examination.

Within sight there is a journal, not just any journal but a black leather bound journal, with gold accents and a red ribbon bookmark. It sits on a cherry wood table with a brass edge, situated in the center of a soft white pillow. You pick it up , open it, and wonder what you write on the pages.

Here are some ideas on moving the thoughts in your head onto the pages before you.

Three Types of Journaling

Did you know that three types of journaling are common. Let’s call them journaling, spiritual journaling, and Christian journaling. We’ll look at little deeper into each.

1. Journaling

Journaling is the practice of keeping a written record of one’s thoughts, feelings, and experiences. It can include anything from daily reflections and musings to long-term goals and aspirations. Morning pages would be an example.

A definition of morning pages is you wake up in the morning, get up, and one of the first things you do is write three pages in a kind of stream of consciousness way before doing anything that could clutter your thoughts or creativity.

Six benefits of Journaling

    1. Improved mental clarity and focus: Writing in a journal first thing in the morning can help clear your mind and set the tone for a productive day.
    2. Increased self-awareness: Keeping a journal allows you to reflect on your thoughts and emotions, which can help increase your understanding of yourself.
    3. Better stress management: Journaling can be a therapeutic way to process and release feelings of stress and anxiety.
    4. Greater productivity: Writing down your goals and tasks for the day can help you stay organized and motivated throughout the day.
    5. Better memory retention: Putting your thoughts and experiences on paper can help you remember them more clearly and for a longer period of time.
    6. Personal Growth: journaling can help you track your progress, measure your achievements and identify areas where you need to improve in order to reach your goals.

2. Spiritual Journaling

Spiritual journaling is a specific type of journaling that focuses on one’s spiritual beliefs, practices and experiences. It may include reflections on religious teachings, prayer, meditation, and other spiritual practices. That’s why I separated Christian journaling into a third category.

I’m defining spiritual journaling as metaphysical. In society today, metaphysics is practiced as a spiritual path that branches over all others, given that it accepts all spiritual paths as a means to a greater truth. It has evolved as a branch of philosophy that asks questions like “why are we here?” and “what lies beyond what we can sense with our senses.”

Six Benefits of Spiritual Journaling

    1. Greater understanding of your spiritual beliefs and practices: Journaling about your spiritual experiences and beliefs can help you gain a deeper understanding of what you believe and how you can integrate those beliefs into your daily life.
    2. Improved mindfulness and presence: Keeping a spiritual journal can help you stay more present in the moment and mindful of your thoughts and emotions.
    3. Increased self-awareness: Reflecting on your spiritual journey can help you gain a greater understanding of yourself and your place in the world.
    4. Clarity in decision making: Journaling can help you gain a deeper understanding of your values and priorities, which can make decision making easier.
    5. Increased connection to a higher power: Writing about your spiritual experiences can help you feel more connected to a higher power or sense of something greater than yourself.
    6. A sense of peace and inner calm: Reflecting on your spiritual journey and beliefs can bring a sense of peace and inner calm, and can help you find meaning and purpose in your life.

3. Christian Journaling

Christian journaling is a type of spiritual journaling that specifically focuses on the Christian faith. It includes reflections on scripture, prayer, and the application of Christian principles in daily life.

It can also include recording the personal experience of living and growing in faith, the understanding of biblical texts and its application in the daily life, and the testimony of God’s guidance and provision.

Six Benefits of Christian Journaling

    1. Closer Relationship with God: Christian journaling can help you develop a deeper relationship with God through reflection on scripture and prayer, and by recording your thoughts and feelings.
    2. Increased spiritual growth: Journaling can help you track your spiritual journey, measure your growth, and identify areas where you need to improve.
    3. Greater understanding of scripture: Writing down your thoughts and reflections on scripture can help you gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Bible.
    4. Improved accountability: Keeping a Christian journal can help you hold yourself accountable to your faith and beliefs, and make sure that you’re living in a way that is true to your faith.
    5. Christian faith: Journaling can help you gain a deeper understanding of God’s will for your life and make better decisions.
    6. A deeper sense of gratitude and appreciation for God’s blessings: Reflecting on the blessings in your life and the ways God has been present can increase gratitude and appreciation for God’s love and grace in your life.

Conclusion

Journaling is a general practice, spiritual journaling is a more specific practice that includes reflections on one’s spiritual beliefs and practices, and Christian journaling is a more specific practice within spiritual journaling that focuses on the Christian faith.

Why not try journaling?

Photo Source: All photos and videos were taken by the author unless noted in the photo caption.
Disclosure: I am an Amazon affiliate. If you purchase using the links in the article I receive a small commission.

My Monday Moments

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Hey there friends!

Just wanted to check in and remind you all to be extra careful with the freezing rain around. I’m wearing a black turtleneck sweater to help chase the cold away. Stay warm!

Guess what, I rescheduled this afternoon’s dentist appointment for mid-February, so I won’t risk sliding off an icy road or slipping and falling on ice. I confess, at sixty-nine years old I fear falling and all the bad things that could happen if I take a tumble.

This morning, I had the best start of my day with my daily Bible reading. I love underlining the meaningful passages, and I’ve got a picture to prove it! It’s the above photo I posted. Yes, that’s me in the picture.

Today is all about cozy moments at home with my coffee bar. I’ve got the best kettle that lets me brew tea, coffee, hot chocolate, you name it. And I’m a total tea/coffee snob, as you can see from my coffee beans, grinders, and multi-size pour over coffee pots in the below photo. Yes, that’s my coffee bar.

Don’t feel sorry for me being stuck in the house today. Oh, no, please don’t. I’ll be spending my day writing from home and staying safe. And as fun as I find writing, I’ll also get to sit in the recliner and read for a few hours. Few things give me more pleasure than reading and enjoying a hot beverage.

Later, I’ll be joining the Writer’s Guild of Texas meeting via Zoom from 7 to 8:30 PM, so that’s something to look forward to! By the end of the meeting, I should know if Mother Nature encased North Texas in ice, as some are forecasting.

Take care and enjoy a cup of your favorite brew. Maybe even crack open your Bible and see what insights you can find.

Cheers, 
Jimmie

Photo sources: All photos are by Jim Kepler.